Best Dog Food Brands for Active Malinois (What We Actually Feed)

Why Belgian Malinois Need the Right Food

Feeding a Belgian Malinois isn’t like feeding your average house dog. With Coco’s activity level, captured across hundreds of photos and videos including 88 swimming photos, 28 runs, and 65 walks, we’ve learned firsthand that these dogs need serious fuel for their high-energy lifestyle.

We’ll share what we actually feed Coco and why, based on real experience and research. No affiliate links, no sponsored content, just practical advice from raising one very active Malinois.

How Much Food Does a Malinois Need?

Belgian Malinois typically need more calories than similarly sized breeds due to their high activity level. Adult females weigh 40-60 pounds, while males range from 60-80 pounds. But weight alone doesn’t tell the whole story.

Our photo library shows Coco:

• Swimming in rivers, lakes, and pools (88 photos)
• Running through fields and forests (28 tracked runs)
• Walking trails and exploring (65 documented walks)

This level of activity means she needs more calories than a less active dog of the same size. We’ve found she maintains her ideal weight best on about 25% more food than standard feeding guidelines suggest.

What We Feed Our Malinois

Current Food: Purina Pro Plan Sport 30/20

After trying several brands, we settled on Purina Pro Plan Sport Performance 30/20 formula. Here’s why:

• High protein (30%) and fat (20%) content
• Real meat as first ingredient
• Proven track record with working dogs
• Available consistently (important for a primary food)
• Cost effective for the quality

Previous Foods We’ve Tried

We started Coco on puppy food specifically formulated for large breeds, then transitioned through several options before finding what worked best. Some other foods we’ve used:

• Royal Canin Malinois Puppy (expensive but good for early growth)
• Orijen Large Breed Puppy (high quality but caused loose stools)
• Hills Science Diet Large Breed (didn’t maintain weight with high activity)

Key Nutrients for Active Malinois

Protein Requirements

Based on our research and Coco’s activity level, we aim for:

• Minimum 30% protein for muscle maintenance
• Real meat as first ingredient
• Multiple protein sources

Fat Content

With regular swimming photos (documented in 88 water activities), we’ve found these fat guidelines work well:

• 20% fat content for sustained energy
• Balanced omega fatty acids
• Higher fat in winter months

Feeding Schedule

Our current feeding schedule evolved as Coco grew from puppy to adult:

Puppy Stage (2-6 months)

• 3 meals per day
• Measured portions based on growth
• Puppy-specific formula

Young Adult (6-12 months)

• 2 meals per day
• Gradual transition to adult food
• Increased portions for activity level

Adult (Current)

• 2 meals daily
• Adjusted portions based on season and activity
• Extra portion after intense exercise days

Special Considerations

Activity Level Adjustments

Our photo library shows varied activity across different settings:

• Heavy exercise days (swimming, running)
• Moderate activity (walks, yard play)
• Rest days (indoor time)

We adjust portions up or down depending on the day’s activity level.

Weather Impact

Our content shows Coco active in various conditions:

• Snow (39 documented photos)
• Summer swimming (88 water activities)
• Trail running (24 tracked photos)

We increase calories in cold weather and during high-activity periods.

Common Feeding Mistakes

Overfeeding Proteins

While Malinois need high protein, too much can cause:

• Kidney strain
• Weight gain
• Digestive issues

Always talk to your vet about proper amounts for your dog’s specific needs.

Inconsistent Feeding

Changing foods frequently can cause:

• Digestive upset
• Picky eating habits
• Nutritional gaps

We learned to stick with what works rather than chase new trends.

Supplements We Use

Keep it simple. After consulting our vet, we add:

• Fish oil for coat and joints
• Probiotic for digestion
• Joint supplement (glucosamine/chondroitin)

Always check with your vet before starting any supplement routine.

Bottom Line

The right food makes a difference in energy, coat condition, and overall health. But what works for one dog might not work for another. Monitor your dog’s weight, energy, and stool quality, and adjust accordingly. When in doubt, consult your vet.